Spectroscopy workshop at Nevers High School: from the sophomore curriculum to astrophysics research!

On Wednesday, February 11, and Thursday, February 12, 2026, students from two sophomore classes at Nevers High School (Montpellier) participated in a spectroscopy workshop offered by the Institute for Research in Science Education (IRES) at the University of Montpellier.

The IRES Physics-Chemistry-Experimentation group, led by Christophe Chaubet, organized these two days and provided the University's spectroscopes and spectral lamps. Represented by Manon Diez and Julien Morin, respectively a doctoral student and lecturer in astrophysics at the Faculty of Sciences and the Universe and Particles Laboratory in Montpellier, the IRES group enabled students to immerse themselves in the world of spectroscopy using equipment from the University of Montpellier. The program included spectroscopic measurements of a variety of light sources and high-resolution observation of the solar spectrum.

Building on the practical work they did in their sophomore year, the students discovered how analyzing light can reveal the secrets of stars: their temperature, chemical composition, and even their speed! Beyond conducting spectroscopy experiments using state-of-the-art equipment, this workshop gave students the opportunity to explore and imagine the many paths offered by science and research, helping them to think concretely about their future career choices.